An Illustrated Compendium of Untranslatable Words From Around the World

The world is a vast and diverse place, full of myriad languages, cultures, and experiences. And just as each language has its own unique way of expressing the world around it, so too does it have its own set of untranslatable words—words that defy easy translation into other languages because they describe concepts or emotions that are specific to that culture.

In this illustrated compendium, we take a journey around the globe to explore some of these untranslatable words, uncovering the fascinating stories behind them and the insights they offer into the human experience.

Lost in Translation: An Illustrated Compendium of Untranslatable Words from Around the World

by Ella Frances Sanders

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	16336 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	114 pages

FREE

Saudade (Portuguese)

Saudade is a Portuguese word that has no direct translation into English. It is a deep emotional state of nostalgic or profound melancholic longing for something that one has lost or that is absent. It is a feeling of sadness, but it is also a feeling of warmth and love. Saudade is often associated with the loss of a loved one, but it can also be used to describe the longing for a place, a time, or even a feeling.

Iktsuarpok (Inuit)

Iktsuarpok is an Inuit word that describes the feeling of anticipation and excitement that one feels when waiting for someone or something. It is a feeling of hope and longing, mixed with a sense of impatience. Iktsuarpok is often used to describe the feeling of waiting for a loved one to return home, or for a special event to occur.

Komorebi (Japanese)

Komorebi is a Japanese word that describes the sunlight that filters through the leaves of trees. It is a beautiful and ephemeral sight, and it is often used in poetry and art to evoke a sense of peace and tranquility. Komorebi is also a reminder of the beauty of nature, and of the importance of taking time to appreciate the simple things in life.

Wabi-sabi (Japanese)

Wabi-sabi is a Japanese aesthetic that celebrates the beauty of imperfection. It is a philosophy that embraces the natural cycle of life and death, and it finds beauty in the things that are broken or incomplete. Wabi-sabi is often used to describe the beauty of old age, or the beauty of a weathered object. It is a reminder that beauty can be found in the most unexpected places.

Feng-shui (Chinese)

Feng-shui is a Chinese philosophy that seeks to harmonize the energy of a space. It is based on the belief that the placement of objects in a room can affect the flow of energy, and that this can have a positive or negative impact on the people who live or work in that space. Feng-shui is often used to design homes and offices, and it can also be used to create a more harmonious environment in any space.

Hygge (Danish)

Hygge is a Danish word that describes a feeling of coziness, contentment, and well-being. It is a feeling of being at home and surrounded by loved ones. Hygge is often associated with the simple things in life, such as spending time with family and friends, reading a book, or enjoying a cup of coffee. Hygge is a way of life that is all about creating a warm and inviting atmosphere, and it is something that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

Ubuntu (Nguni languages)

Ubuntu is a Nguni word that describes a philosophy of human interconnectedness. It is based on the belief that we are all connected to each other, and that we should treat each other with respect and compassion. Ubuntu is a way of life that is all about community and cooperation, and it is something that is practiced by many people in Africa. Ubuntu is a reminder that we are all part of something larger than ourselves, and that we should always strive to help others.

Laissez-faire (French)

Laissez-faire is a French term that describes a philosophy of economic and political liberalism. It is based on the belief that the government should not interfere in the economy, and that the free market should be allowed to operate without government intervention. Laissez-faire is a philosophy that is often associated with capitalism, and it is something that has been practiced by many countries around the world.

Schadenfreude (German)

Schadenfreude is a German word that describes the feeling of pleasure that one derives from the misfortune of others. It is a feeling of gloating or satisfaction that is often accompanied by a sense of superiority. Schadenfreude is a negative emotion that can be harmful to both the person who experiences it and the person who is the object of it. It is important to remember that schadenfreude is never justified, and that we should always strive to be compassionate and understanding towards others.

Tachtig (Dutch)

Tachtig is a Dutch word that describes a feeling of boredom or listlessness. It is a feeling of being uninspired and unmotivated, and it is often accompanied by a sense of apathy. Tachtig is a common feeling among people who are stuck in a rut, or who are feeling unfulfilled in their lives. It is important to remember that tachtig is a temporary feeling, and that there are always things that we can do to improve our mood and get out of a rut.

The world is a vast and diverse place, and each language has its own unique way of expressing the human experience. The untranslatable words that we have explored in this compendium offer a glimpse into the different ways that people around the world think and feel. They are a reminder that there is more to the world than we can ever fully understand, and that there is always something new to learn.

We hope that you have enjoyed this journey around the world of untranslatable words. We encourage you to continue exploring the different languages and cultures of the world, and to discover the many different ways that people express themselves.

Lost in Translation: An Illustrated Compendium of Untranslatable Words from Around the World

by Ella Frances Sanders

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	16336 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	114 pages

FREE